Have you ever wondered what the Talking Heads might have sounded like if they had moved to a Spanish village in the mountains, done a load of acid and run around like loonies? Crazed five-piece Crystal Fighters seem to do just this, filling in that much required niche market.
Rushing in all directions with grimy electro rhythm on one side and African beats on the other, Crystal Fighters seem to try their best at sticking as many thumbs in different pies as possible. The idea of moving swiftly between soft melodies, dirty riffs and crunching metal has never been met with the most resounding of welcomes. In fact, most people would be forgiven for forecasting failure. However, against all odds, Crystal Fighters’ mad amalgamation of pretty much anything they can get their hands on works.
Beginning with joyous chanting and plinky mandolin, first track 'At Home' kicks off splendidly, fusing nicely into pounding 'Champion Sound' and Spanish-style 'Follow'. As if the LP had been submerged in a vat of Rocky heroics, 'In The Summer' appears to build from humble beginnings into a swirling, sped-up training montage. Each track seems to effortlessly jump from folk to electro to rave to a blend of the lot.
Crystal Fighters’ 11-track crowd-pleaser is filled with all sorts of delightful surprises like this. Attempting to bring something for everyone with the album, they even slow things down at one point on the glorious 'Plage'; a triumphant number any Mexican Mariachi band would be proud of.
An eclectic mix of rave-filled adventure and driving percussion, Crystal Fighters’ effort proves worthy listening.
Stereoboard Rating: 8/10
NOTE FROM THE EDITOR
We don't run any advertising! Our editorial content is solely funded by lovely people like yourself using Stereoboard's listings when buying tickets for live events. To keep supporting us, next time you're looking for concert, festival, sport or theatre tickets, please search for "Stereoboard". It costs you nothing, you may find a better price than the usual outlets, and save yourself from waiting in an endless queue on Friday mornings as we list ALL available sellers!
Beginning with joyous chanting and plinky mandolin, first track 'At Home' kicks off splendidly, fusing nicely into pounding 'Champion Sound' and Spanish-style 'Follow'. As if the LP had been submerged in a vat of Rocky heroics, 'In The Summer' appears to build from humble beginnings into a swirling, sped-up training montage. Each track seems to effortlessly jump from folk to electro to rave to a blend of the lot. 
